Copper and cobalt from industrial waste: what Metlen is actually planning in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan’s foreign ministry reported a meeting between Deputy Foreign Minister Ardak Zebeshev and representatives of Greece’s Metlen Energy & Metals. They discussed a project to recover copper, zinc, nickel and cobalt from metallurgical waste. It is a potentially important industrial idea, but the statement confirms neither that processing has begun nor an agreed investment figure.

Why it matters

Industrial residues can contain metals that would otherwise require new ore extraction. Recovery may reduce waste and create higher-value products. The real economic and environmental benefit depends on the waste composition, technology, operating costs and emissions controls. The ministry has not yet published those figures.

The parties discussed a phased implementation model, logistics and state support. KAZAKH INVEST said it was ready to assist. Zebeshev invited the delegation to an investment roundtable in Shymkent on 22 October.

An agreement, plant location, environmental documents, capacity and commissioning date would allow a firmer assessment. For now, Metlen plans such processing and is discussing how to proceed.

Primary source: www.gov.kz.